FREEZERS have been one of the most highly-valued items on panic-buyers’ shopping lists in recent weeks.

According to one South Lakes business owner, orders shot up and stocks were depleted.

Tom Harvey, owner of the Milnthorpe kitchen appliance retailer, Clocktower, said that two weeks ago: “We started to see an increase in freezer sales of all types.

“As we re-ordered it was clear that our suppliers were also seeing the same,” he said.

“One told me they sold five months’ normal supply in just three days!

“A local customer told us that the national chains have stopped taking orders as well.”

Mr Harvey said the shop was now closed to customers during the lockdown.

But they were taking phone and online orders and delivering safely, and were "still busy". They also offer contact-free collection and ask customers if they would like to remain in another room while they carry out installations.